Durand wp mid edition hiking boot

The amount and availability of footwear suited to our chosen sport has increased quite dramatically in a relatively short period of time. In that respect, a brand name to make headway in the last couple of years is KEEN footwear. Having previously tested and reviewed their Pyrenees and Delta Boots I’m now fortunate enough to report on the latest addition to their range of top quality boots – The Durand WP. Available in mid-height (featured) or ‘low’ editions, all are classed as ‘hiking’ boots and are also the company’s first ever American manufactured offering.

Measuring 7¼ inches at the front (excluding the height of the generously sized tongue) and dropping to 5¾ inches at the rear is just one design trait that helps these boots be so comfortable to wear and walk in. In fact the key word to these very stylish boots is ‘ergonomic’. A word I don’t use lightly, but one look at the overall design clearly indicates how they’ve been ‘shaped’ to fit the foot and in this case also protect the toe, front upper leg area and heel – but more on these specific areas later.

Sole Man

The Durand feature a unique direct-inject construction technique that is used to attach a premium Nubuck leather and breathable mesh upper directly to the midsole giving rugged durability. A KEEN. DRY waterproof, breathable membrane is also incorporated into the build to ensure protection and comfort in all weathers and conditions. Extra outer protection is clearly seen and supplied to the boot at the toe cap and rear while the top and side sections have a well configured and generous amount of inner padding. A PU blended midsole offers incredible underfoot shock absorption and cushioning while an integrated heel cushion is locked directly into the insole to support the foot where it’s needed most. This ergonomic design of the footbed itself is clearly in evidence felt by way of the comfort it offers while walking. As a matter of interest – the company claim results from laboratory controlled compression testing demonstrated that even after one million steps, KEEN’s PU midsole compressed by just 3% versus more than 50% compression in a traditional EVA midsole. Not only very impressive on paper but during ‘real-time’ usage one you certainly feel the benefits of.

Designed to perform on a wide variety of terrain, the dual-compound outsole uses an outer edged rubber composite specifically engineered to maximise edging and grip, whilst the centre unit features maximise durability in high wear areas. Also the lightweight TPU shank adds even more stability and a high level of mid-foot support, while the deep cut and generously sized cleat layout includes a very practical toe rise.

Conclusion

The Durand uses a unique and cleverly designed lacing system configured so that it ‘draws’ the boot snug to your foot and upper ankle. This consists of three pairs of captive wide Nubuck loops integral to the build, then a pair of similarly constructed set-back lace retainers that also have a metal border for extra strength. Moving higher up there are then a pair of captive ‘hinged’ metal retainers and a pair of open metal hasp type fastenings. Behind this is the generously padded articulate tongue which couples with the wide throat and unique lacing system to allow you to get in and out of the boots quickly and easily.

Available in 6 - 12UK (including half-sizes) plus 13UK, and in Magnet/Clay Red (as shown), Raven/ Tawny Olive and Cascade/ Gargoyle, the Durand WP Mid Edition has an SRP of £140. For further information, contact: KEEN Footwear on 0800 2255 5336 or head to the website at www.keenfootwear.com.